Cannabidiol has been found to act as an antagonist of GPR55, a G protein-coupled receptor and putative cannabinoid receptor that is expressed in the caudate nucleus and putamen in the brain.[32] It has also been found to act as an inverse agonist of GPR3, GPR6, and GPR12.[12] Although currently classified as orphan receptors, these receptors are most closely related phylogenetically to the cannabinoid receptors.[12] In addition to orphan receptors, CBD has been shown to act as a serotonin 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist,[33] and this action may be involved in its antidepressant,[34][35] anxiolytic,[35][36] and neuroprotective effects.[37][38] It is an allosteric modulator of the μ- and δ-opioid receptors as well.[39] The pharmacological effects of CBD have additionally been attributed to PPARγ agonism and intracellular calcium release.[8]
For our review of the best CBD topicals available online, we focused only on companies which make third-party, independent lab results available to consumers. Lab results are available online, included in the order, or on request. It’s vitally important that consumers know exactly what products they’re consuming: how strong it is, and whether it has any impurities. We also focused on brands with fast, friendly customer service and easy to use websites.